Given the potential of drop-in biofuels, the U.S. and EU have every reason to raise renewable fuel thresholds higher. Advantages include energy security, reduced dependence on foreign oil, fewer carbon dioxide emissions and domestic job creation.

Roots of mighty oaks push up through New Orleans sidewalks while trees in the metropolis often tower above nearby buildings. Nearly half of Louisiana, in fact, is covered with forests, and the southern U.S. as a whole is considered the nation's wood basket.